Catskill Region January 2015

GUIDEwww.catskillregionguide.com

SPECIAL SECTION: SKI THE CATSKILLS

January 2015 • GUIDE 1 2 • www.catskillregionguide.com TABLE OF www.catskillregionguide.com

VOLUME 30, NUMBER 1 January 2015

PUBLISHERS CONTENTS Peter Finn, Chairman, Catskill Mountain Foundation Sarah Finn, President, Catskill Mountain Foundation

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR, CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION Sarah Taft

ADVERTISING SALES Rita Adami Steve Friedman Albert Verdesca

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Susan Aleksejczyk, Paul Misko, Peg Schmid Odell, Jeff Senterman, Danielle Vajtay

ADMINISTRATION & FINANCE Candy McKee Cara Dantzig

PRINTING Catskill Mountain Printing Services On the cover: . To learn more about Windham Mountain Resort’s investment in DISTRIBUTION the future, please see the article on page 4. For more information about other ski resorts in the Catskill Catskill Mountain Foundation , please see the articles on pages 7 and 9.

SPECIAL SECTION: SKI THE CATSKILLS EDITORIAL DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE: January 6 The Catskill Mountain Region Guide is published 12 times a year by the Catskill Mountain Foundation, Inc., Main Street, PO Box 4 WINDHAM MOUNTAIN RESORT INVESTS IN THE FUTURE 924, Hunter, NY 12442. If you have events or programs that you would like to have covered, please send them by e-mail to tafts@ catskillmtn.org. Please be sure to furnish a contact name and in- clude your address, telephone, fax, and e-mail information on all 7 OFFERS ALL THE KEY FACTORS correspondence. For editorial and photo submission guidelines send a request via e-mail to [email protected]. THAT MAKE A GREAT SKI RESORT VISIT The liability of the publisher for any error for which it may be By Susan Aleksejczyk and Danielle Vajtay held legally responsible will not exceed the cost of space ordered or occupied by the error. The publisher assumes no liability for errors in key numbers. The publisher will not, in any event, be liable for loss of income or profits or any consequent damages. 9 HUNTER MOUNTAIN EXPANDS The Catskill Mountain Region Guide office is located in Hunter Village Square in the Village of Hunter on Route 23A. CHILDREN’S LEARNING PROGRAM The magazine can be found on-line at www.catskillmtn.org by clicking on the “Guide Magazine” button, or by going directly to www.catskillregionguide.com 7,000 copies of the Catskill Mountain Region Guide are 10 THE TANNERSVILLE ANTIQUE & ARTISAN CENTER distributed each month. It is distributed free of charge at the Plattekill, Sloatsburg and New Baltimore rest stops on the AND THE ANTIQUE ANNEX State Thruway, and at the tourist information offices, restaurants, lodgings, retailers and other businesses throughout Greene, Delaware and Ulster counties. Home delivery of the Guide magazine is available, at an 12 THE ICE HARVEST FESTIVAL: A COOL WINTER TRADITION additional fee, to annual members of the Catskill Mountain By Peg Schmid Odell Foundation at the $100 membership level or higher. ©2000 Catskill Mountain Foundation, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. The Catskill Mountain Region Guide is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts. All photo- 14 THE GREAT OUTDOORS IN THE CATSKILLS graphic rights reside with the photographer. By Jeff Senterman

THE CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION 19 CHILLING IN THE NEW YEAR 7950 MAIN STREET By Paul Misko P.O. BOX 924 HUNTER, NY 12442 PHONE: 518 263 2000 FAX: 518 263 2025 23 JANUARY AT THE WWW.CATSKILLMTN.ORG CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION

January 2015 • GUIDE 3 Windham Mountain Resort Invests in the Future

Photo courtesy of Windham Mountain

Windham Mountain Resort means business—BIG business!

fter investing $7.1 million in 2013 and an additional $4.2 SEASONS, the popular restaurant and bar located on the A million this year, the attractive Windham Mountain Resort third floor of the base lodge, underwent a complete renovation to continues to transform itself into a year-round destination. The offer a whole new dining experience. The extensive renovations two year investment of over $11.3 million confirms a commit- feature vaulted ceilings, two fireplaces and plenty of seating. In ment to the growth of the resort and to the quality of the experi- addition, two new polished concrete bars offer great views of the ence they provide. surrounding mountains. The restaurant is now one of the largest Current improvements at Windham include: Wolf’s Prey, banquet/entertainment facilities in the area, with an occupancy a new blue-square trail in the Wilderness Bowl; a complete rating of nearly 500 people. renovation of the resort’s base lodge restaurant, SEASONS; a new To further promote the year-round experience, Alpine Spa Alpine Spa and yoga center; expansion of the Children’s Learning at Windham Mountain Resort, a full service spa and yoga center, Center; development of a lift-served mountain bike park; invest- is now open. The new slope-side spa boasts world class services, ment in snowmaking infrastructure; two new PistenBully snow treatments and products. Non skiing resort-guests will also have groomers and continued improvements at the resort’s golf course. easy access to the spa that is conveniently located at the base of Their newest trail, Wolf’s Prey is the beginning of much an- Whisper Run beginner area built in last year’s expansion. ticipated terrain expansion in the Wilderness Bowl. The acquisi- The grooming fleet at Windham Mountain is state-of-the- tion of this ridge between their East and West Peaks has enabled art, with the addition of two new PistenBully groomers, further the resort to build this trail as part as a multi-year expansion plan. enhancing the resort’s commitment to superior snow quality. This is the third new run added to the resort in the last two years, Additional improvements include enhancements to the snow- tallying Windham’s trail count to 53. making system, significant upgrades in rental equipment, and a

4 • www.catskillregionguide.com January 2015 • GUIDE 5 new scenic deck for weddings and events at the top of the mountain. Want more? How about a moun- tain bike park! The master plan includes design, development and construction of a park by Gravity Logic, a firm best known for building the most premier bike parks in the world. Park construc- tion has begun, with a projected opening this July and will be suitable for a wide variety of ages, skills, and interests. The mountain bike park will be a natural progression for the resort which hosts the UCI Windham World Cup, the only mountain bike World Cup event in the United States. Expansion of the Children’s Learning Center allows for increased occupancy to an important amenity at the resort. The CLC provides indoor activities and ski/snowboard lessons for children age 2-7. The expansion supports Windham Mountain Resort’s family-friendly reputa- tion and focus of attracting new partici- pants to the sport. Continued investment in the resort’s golf course and country club include the renovation and addition of twenty-six bunkers, reconstruction of several tee boxes, and the widening of fairways to speed up play. A total of $500,000 has been invested in the course and facilities this spring in addition to $1 million in improvements when the public/private course was acquired by Windham Moun- tain Resort in April of 2013. Windham Mountain Resort offers the premier alpine lifestyle in the . With the earliest opening date in ten years in 2014 and with record- breaking snow conditions, it’s clear to say Windham is experiencing the perfect storm. If you’ve never been to Windham Mountain Resort or it has simply been a while since you’ve come to visit, it’s time to take a ride up Route 23 and see what it’s all about. Windham Mountain Resort is located at 19 Resort Drive in Windham, NY. For more information, call 800 754 9463 or go to www.windhammountain. com.

6 • www.catskillregionguide.com Photo courtesy of Plattekill Mountain Plattekill Mountain Offers All the Key Factors that Make a Great Ski Resort Visit By Susan Aleksejczyk and Danielle Vajtay

o, what are the key factors that make up a great ski resort ing all new permanent tower mounted fan guns on the “Lower Svisit? At Plattekill Mountain they have ranked them—terrain, Face” trail to make for a deeper snow base quicker and adding convenience and overall atmosphere are high up on most skier’s additional snowmaking capacity on the “Plunge” Trail for added lists, and Plattekill Mountain has them covered more than ever as top-to-bottom coverage. Also, on the Northface side of the they enter the 2014-15 season. mountain, they will be adding guns to the headwalls of “Twist” and “Ridge Run” on terrain that have never had snowmaking First (and most important) – before, making these trails open earlier in the season. These truly Snowmaking and Terrain. are big milestones for a smaller resort. Plattekill has always been known for its prime location as the first The second part of this equation, terrain. With the significant mountain range east off the Great Lakes, with natural lake effect expansion of their Learning Center this season, beginners will have snowfall averaging 165” a year. Although Plattekill isn’t famous an even larger area to learn in addition to their 2-mile long begin- for attention grabbing multimillion dollar upgrades, Plattekill ner wrap around runs off both peaks. The fact that Plattekill seems will be assisting Mother Nature more than ever this year, with one to have a lot of “elbow room” gives new skiers and snowboarders of its biggest snowmaking expansions to date. They’ve increased lots of room to turn and learn on their beginner and intermediate snowmaking output on some of their most popular trails includ- terrain. Plattekill is best known for steeper trails boasting top-to-

January 2015 • GUIDE 7 bottom 1,100 feet of continuous vertical due to the nature of the unique terrain layout in a natural ski bowl.

Second – Convenience. Plattekill Mountain has lift tickets avail- able for advance purchase online on their newly revamped website to save time and money. Once you arrive, those who are used to the masses at the local ski resorts will be pleased to find plenty of room to move on Plattekill trails and at the lift lines. Even on the busiest weekends you will always find a good flow. No parking shuttles (except for the occasional lift on holidays). Large accommodating park- ing areas are at the base lodge, which has been improved with various upgrades. Enjoy the Catskills! Also this year, three new webcams will keep skiers/boarders apprised of upcom- Great Venue For Music & Entertainment! ing snow conditions. *MUST SEE* Incredible 100 Acre Parcel Third – Atmosphere. with Majestic Mountain Views Best of all, small mountain charm with big

• Four Unit Apartment House mountain terrain is what one will find at Plattekill. The lodge is rustic, with a staff • Amphitheater • Indoor Theater • Stable as friendly as a small town gets. You’ll get • Lighted Outdoor Arena the feeling of being like one of the family • Roads & Electric Throughout the Property WOW! Buy Now! before you leave and you’ll experience • GREAT INVESTMENT $790,000 $685,000 $590,000 first-hand Plattekill’s number one goal to • MANY COMMERCIAL USES X X Come see this unique property improve the guest experience in every way. • GREAT FOR FAMILY ESTATE located 2 hours north of For more information, please contact

Contact: Gary Kistinger, owner 5389 NYS Route 32, Catskill, NY Plattekill Mountain at 607 326 3500 or 5365 NYS Route 32 • Catskill, NY 12414 NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY! 518-678-2000 • cell: 518-965-2787 www.plattekill.com.

8 • www.catskillregionguide.com Hunter Mountain Expands Children’s Learning Program

Photo courtesy of Hunter Mountain

unter Mountain had a great beginning to the season with installations, the terrain in the Terrain Garden was re-graded to two snow storms hitting the slopes before the holiday period. provide a gentle, more suitable slope for beginners. HCombined, the storms dumped thirty inches of natural snow on Inside the Learning Center, the mountain remodeled the the slopes, which added to the impressive amount of man-made lower area, creating a new area dedicated to Mountaineers (ages snow. As the season continues, we’re looking forward to making 7-12) for their lunch during the season. This adds to the dedi- mountain memories with our guests—young and old, new and cated rental area for Mountaineers, which mirrors the set-up for returning. the Explorers Program (ages 4-6), having a dedicated rental area, Every year, Hunter Mountain invests in significant improve- lunch room, and break room for children. The exclusivity of these ments to enhance the guest experience. This year, we’re excited rooms streamlines the process for parents and children, making about the expansion of Children’s Learning Programs. Mountain the moment they walk into the Learning Center to the time the and Lift Operations installed two new SunKid carpet lifts in the children get out on the snow as seamless as possible. Terrain Garden of Hunter One. Each carpet is for the sole use of If you’d like more information on our Mountaineers and/or Children’s Programs, which provide exclusive learning experiences Explorers Programs, visit www.HunterMtn.com. for children. The new lifts replace a pony tow lift, which had a lower uphill capacity than that of both carpet lifts. With the new Happy Trails!

January 2015 • GUIDE 9 The Tannersville Antique & Artisan Center and The Antique Annex ith the overwhelming popularity of The Tannersville The Tannersville An- WAntique & Artisan Center (TAAC) it only seemed fitting tique & Artisan Center and to create more space highlighting the varied talents of local crafts- Annex is located at 6045 men and vendors, as well as nationally known artists.The Antique Main Street in Tannersville. Annex is a welcome addition to the Tannersville Antique and Hours are 10 am to 6 pm Artisan Center. Since its grand opening May of this year, the An- every day, except Tuesday tique Annex has been thriving. The Annex has gotten an excellent and Wednesday. For more response from community members and tourists. We are pleased information, visit www.Tan- to be able to showcase additional vendors offering unique trea- nersvilleAntiques.com or call sures including upscale vintage clothing items, jewelry, art work, 518 589 5600. traditional antiques, and contemporary craft items. The Antique Annex is pleased to co-host with The Tannersville Antique and Artisan Center’s community outreach educational programs and discussions by our vendors and local artisans. Creekwalk is a beautifully decorated outdoor space located between the ‘Annex’ and the ‘Center’ which provides a lovely and convenient path from Main Street to the rear parking area. Please come in for all your shopping needs: we specialize in one of a kind gifts for unique people. Our qualified staff are always happy to assist.

10 • www.catskillregionguide.com January 2015 • GUIDE 11 Photo by Kevin Gray. All photos courtesy of Hanford Mills Museum

By Peg Schmid Odell

he first Saturday in February, hundreds of people come to community as everyone works together to fill the ice house.” She THanford Mills Museum, located in the Delaware County noted that about seven tons of ice are harvested each year at the hamlet of East Meredith, to take part in a traditional ice harvest. festival. At the Museum’s Independence Day Celebration on July Using century-old tools and techniques, Festival goers cut ice 4th, the ice is used to make ice cream. blocks from the frozen Mill Pond, maneuver them along a watery “It’s a Currier and Ives experience,” explains Chris Becker, channel, and slide them up a wooden ramp to shore. There, the who has volunteered at the Festival and also serves on the Mu- 50-pound blocks are loaded onto small bobsleds, and pulled to seum’s board. “Red horse barn covered with white snow, mag- the ice house, where, packed in sawdust, the ice will last well into nificent paired draft horses with a full sleigh of laughing families, the summer months. young ice harvesters smaller than the ice saws beaming as they cut In the days before refrigeration, ice harvesting was an es- their square of ice, strangers coming together as one community sential, and often lucrative, winter activity. Farmers used ice to for the harvest. It’s a scene that has been historically repeated, but keep milk and other agricultural products cold on their way to now recorded with cell phones and digital cameras.” market; households needed ice to supply iceboxes, the precursors Callahan credits her staff and a hearty core of more than 50 to today’s refrigerators. volunteers for making the Ice Harvest Festival a safe and enjoy- “We’re glad to provide a window into the past,” explains able event. Ice cleats are available to all visitors who want to walk the Museum’s executive director Liz Callahan. “The festival is a on the frozen pond. Interpreters explain how to use an ice saw, day of hands-on history and winter fun. There is a great spirit of breaker bar, gaff and tongs. To ensure a good crop of ice, in the

12 • www.catskillregionguide.com weeks preceding the Festival, Museum staff shovel insulating visitors were singing Frozen songs, and we encourage everyone to blankets of snow off the pond. Staff also monitor the ice depth, come this year and channel their inner Kristoff, Elsa or Olaf,” says which, depending on conditions, ranges from 8-18 inches thick. Callahan. When visitors are ready to warm up, they can gather around Details are still being finalized for the February 7 Ice Harvest, outdoor fire places or visit the forge to see blacksmith demonstra- but past years also have included kids’ ice fishing clinics, storytell- tions. Stateline Camping Center brings an antique coffee roaster ing, tree walks, and craft-making stations. to roast peanuts. The bags of hot peanuts warm your hands as you The Ice Harvest Festival is the one day each winter the eat them. Museum is open to the public, though it does run ice harvesting Restaurants from around the area (Delhi, Oneonta, Cooper- field trips for area schools. The Museum offers guided tours of its stown) donate soup for the Festival’s hot soup buffet. Alfresco’s historic water- and steam-powered sawmill, gristmill and wood- Italian Bistro in Oneonta has participated for years. Elisabeth working shop May 15- October 15 (Wednesdays-Sundays). Webster, who owns and operates the restaurant with her hus- band Jerry, says “We’re both history people. Society needs to be Festival Details reminded about what people of yesteryear had to go through, and The Ice Harvest Festival runs from 10 am to 4 pm on Satur- realize how good we have it now. That’s why we love supporting day, February 7. Children 12 and under receive free admission. things like Ice Harvest.” Admission for adults and teens is $9; senior admission is $7. AAA In the John Hanford Farmhouse, volunteers will cook on a and other discounts available. Museum members receive free ad- wood-fired cookstove, using recipes and techniques from the early mission. Those living in zip codes (13757, 13739, 13786, 13750, 1900s. Dishes cooked up at Ice Harvest have included pepper- and 13806) neighboring Hanford Mills receive free admission. mint drops, peanut brittle, deviled bananas and welsh rarebit. The Museum also screens historic films showing ice harvests from the About Hanford Mills Museum 1920s-40s. The mission of Hanford Mills Museum is to inspire audiences Visitors can take a horse-drawn sleigh ride around the of all ages to explore connections between energy, technology, Museum site and watch culinary students from the SUNY Delhi natural resources and entrepreneurship in rural communities Hospitality Center Ice Team transform large blocks of ice into with a focus on sustainable choices. The museum is listed on the artistic creations. The festival also features a snowman village, and National and New York State Registers of Historic Places. local crafters, farmers and vendors. Hanford Mills Museum is located at 51 County Highway 12 in East Meredith, at the intersection of Delaware County Routes The Frozen Effect 10 & 12, 10 miles from Oneonta, and 15 miles from Delhi. For Last year’s festival occurred just after the release of the popular more information, visit www.hanfordmills.org or call 607 278 Disney movie Frozen, which opens with an ice harvest. “Some 5744.

January 2015 • GUIDE 13 THE GREAT OUTDOORS IN THE CATSKILLS By Jeff Senterman

Photo by Jeff Senterman

ith a good start for snowfall in December, the colder tem- a winter hike because of the cold temperatures, generally higher Wperatures and deeper snows of January open up many new winds, snow, ice and limited daylight hours. activities to enjoy in the Catskill Mountains. Our local ski areas are open for downhill skiing and many of our hiking trails turn into Keeping Warm great snowshoe and cross country routes as natural snow piles up in You should always be prepared on any hike, ski or snowshoe trip the mountains. Instead of staying in, winter in the Catskill Moun- to keep warm and sheltered with nothing more than what you tains is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the mountains. are carrying with you. You should not count on a campfire or If you are going to be spending some time in the great out- wood stove to keep you warm. You should learn how to layer your doors this January there are some common sense things you can clothing to maximize warmth. You must always stay alert to the do to make your activities more enjoyable. Each year around this dangers of hypothermia and frostbite—know the signs on both time, I like to go over these tips to maximize my own enjoyment and learn how to treat them. of the outdoors in the winter and hopefully maximize your enjoy- ment too. We have a great story about snowshoeing from Jess and Daylight Tim Luby, owners of the recently opened Catskill Mountain Store- Unlike the long hours of daylight for hikes in the summertime, house in Phoenicia. There are also plenty of activities and events to winter days are very short and darkness can easily surprise anyone keep you from getting cabin fever in the Catskills this winter. in the woods with its quick arrival. Always plan out your trips to maximize your use of daylight. Always carry a flashlight and Some Tips for Hiking and Enjoying headlamp in case you are stuck in the darkness and still need to Outdoor Sports in the Winter make your way out to the trailhead. Hikes, cross country ski, and snowshoe trips can all be fun, adventuresome and beautiful in the winter, but they do require Skiing and Snowshoeing advance planning as there is less room for mistakes and errors on Hiking in the snow takes a lot of effort since most often hikers

14 • www.catskillregionguide.com Happy New Year! from the Catskill Mountain Region Guide and the Catskill Mountain Foundation

Yoga Concepts on Skis Which Mountain Suits (YCS) Your Practice? Yoga Concepts on Skis is offered at both. • Ski instruction on blue and black Text “YCS” to 917-589-8862 terrain, with a blend of spirit, body, mind and technique

• Appropriate for those who practice any level and branch of yoga

• Appropriate for aspiring intermediate and advanced skiers

• Plenty of individual attention – private and semi-private sessions Belleayre – Gentler terrain, less Hunter – More challenging • Your choice of Belleayre, NY vertical, usually a more yin terrain, longer runs, a more yang (Tue & Wed) or Hunter experience. experience. NYS Thruway, Exit Mountain, NY (Fri, Sat, Sun) NYS Thruway, Exit 19. Tues & Weds 20. Fri, Sat, Sun

January 2015 • GUIDE 15 gaiters to help keep your legs dry, and pop your hood over your head when trekking through overhanging trees to prevent snow from getting in at the neck and getting you wet.

2. Winter is the wrong time to think you need to pack lightly. Carry many insulating layers including a spare set of long underwear tops and bottoms – putting on dry, cold clothes may shock the system initially but you will feel warmer quickly.

3. Make sure your equipment works—finding out your water bottle is cracked when it is 10 below at lunchtime is the wrong time to learn about it.

4. Be aware that solid food items freeze; cut up those snickers bars ahead of time, even cold cuts can freeze!

5. Drink constantly because you will not feel as thirsty in cold weather as you do during summer activities.

6. Know how to repair snowshoe and crampon/creeper bindings so a broken binding doesn’t become an emergency deep in the woods.

Photo by Jeff Senterman 7. Don’t use those ski pole wrist loops—a downhill fall can wrench a shoulder if you go one way and your ski pole “post-hole” their way along a trail. That is, with each step, a hiker stays put. sinks into the snow creating what looks like a hole for a post with every step. Cross country skis and snowshoes on the other hand 8. Ideally know your winter hike ahead of time; trail finding keep you on top of the snow and let you travel further with less is tricky with deep snow so knowing the route well is a energy than trying to hike on your own. Skiing and snowshoe- good idea. ing open up a whole new way to look at the trails of the Catskill Mountains too, with adventures around every corner. 9. Favor hikes with few stream crossings; crossings are dangerous as both a water hazard and possibly soaking Trail Markers everything you are wearing and carrying. Even just getting Luckily in the Catskills we do not have white trail markers, but your snowshoes wet can result in heavy globs of ice stuck on. even so, the familiar red, blue and yellow trail markers can be hidden by deep snows, especially on mountain summits. Having a 10. If you’re hiking with a dog check their paws for icing, map and compass is always a good idea, but it is a necessity in the make sure they are staying adequately hydrated and are wintertime to make sure you do not lose your way. Get yourself a staying warm. printed map from the Trail Conference (www.nynjtc.org/catskills) for your hikes and don’t rely on battery powered devices—cold 11. Be especially careful if conditions are icy; crampons and weather causes them to lose a charge faster. creepers only work if you stay on your feet.

Tips and Tricks 12. If you are a beginner winter hiker, consider a group Here are some additional ideas, tips and suggestions for winter hike to learn more about trail conditions and preparation. hiking, skiing and snow shoeing trips: With proper planning, the right skills and the right equipment, 1. Stay dry and waterproof. Make sure you manage your winter is a great time to get out and enjoy the Catskill Mountains. core temperature while hiking to prevent sweating, which One of the best ways to fight off cabin fever is to get out of the gets your clothes wet and limits their insulative value. Wear cabin and get into the woods!

16 • www.catskillregionguide.com A Snowshoeing Revival in Phoenicia In the winter with deep snow in the mountains, snowshoes can be one of the best ways to get around on the trails of the Catskills. That’s just what Jess and Tim Luby of Catskill Mountain Storehouse, a new outdoors store in Phoenicia, want you to know. Ms. Luby explains, “the woods are incredibly beautiful in winter and we want people to get out there and see just how amazing they are. And the best way to do that is on a pair of snowshoes.” To this end, Store- house will be offering snowshoe rentals this winter for those who want to explore. “All around Phoenicia, there are so many opportunities for snowshoeing and we want to spearhead a revival of the sport in the area,” says Mr. Luby. He goes on to explain, “from the new section of in Phoenicia, to the Kenneth Wilson Campground, there are tons of suitable trails for all ability levels close to our shop. We’re very excited to help people discover this sport and how breathtaking these trails are in winter.” But, as the Lubys are quick to point out, there’s more to Phoenicia in the winter than just snowshoe rentals. “People think of Phoenicia as more of a warmer weather destina- tion, but it’s also great here in wintertime,” says Ms. Luby. “Brios is still churning out their wood-fired pizza, Mama’s Boy has amazing hot chocolate, and places like Tenderland Home have beautiful winter-themed homegoods that make Phoenicia worth the visit.” Besides snowshoes, Storehouse is going to offer other winter necessities, such as hats, gloves, socks, gaiters, and microspikes. “The area needs a place that offers essential winter gear,” says Ms. Luby. “The last thing we want is for people to be stuck out in the cold underprepared. When it comes down to it, our store is all about helping people stay comfortable so they can enjoy and appreciate the outdoors without having to worry about things like frostbite.” Snowshoe rentals will be available as soon as snow blankets the ground. The Lubys invite you to stop by to talk trails so you can start planning your winter adventure. “We won’t just send you off with your snowshoes,” says Mr. Luby. “We’ll talk to you about your ability level and what it is you want to get out of your trip before we recommend a good trail for you. It sounds cliché, but it’s safety first, especially in winter.”

For more information: Catskill Mountain Storehouse 60 Main Street, Phoenicia, NY 12464 845 688 3143 Facebook.com/storehouseny.com

Updated Trail Conditions for Catskills Trails Conditions can change quickly in the Catskills. In the winter months, the mountains can be unforgiving with low temperatures, high winds and deep snowpack. For more detailed information on the condition and status of trails and trailheads in the Catskills, the Trail Conference offers a page on their website with regularly updated conditions at www.nynjtc.org/content/catskill-trails-updates.

Events Winter Bird Walk at Thorn Preserve Meet trip leader Mark DeDea ([email protected] ) at 8:00 am on Sunday, January 4 at the Thorn Preserve, located at 55 John Joy Road in the Town of Woodstock. This parcel is an open field that may attract wintering raptors. It is bordered by the Sawkill

January 2015 • GUIDE 17 Creek which often holds waterfowl late into the winter and a Take a Hike! wooded swamp sprinkled with Winterberry that should attract a If you are looking to get out on the trails, but would like to go Hermit Thrush or two. All Woodstock Land Conservancy field on a guided group hike to help you get your bearings on Catskill trips are FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. Please visit www. Mountain trails, the region has several different groups that lead WoodstockLandConservancy.org for a list of more upcoming guided hikes. The Catskill Mountain Club offers members and programs. Event will cancel with rain or snow. non-members the opportunity to go hiking, paddling, biking and skiing throughout the Catskills with a majority of the trips Winter Weekend in the western Catskills (www.catskillmountainclub.org). The In January, the Catskill 3500 Club will be holding its annual Catskill 3500 Club leads hikes up the 35 peaks in the Catskills Winter Weekend! The Farmer’s Almanac is saying we are going that reach above 3500 feet in elevation (www.catskill-3500-club. to have a real winter this year, so be sure to mark your calendars org). The Rip Van Winkle Hikers also lead hikes throughout for the annual Catskill 3500 Club Winter Weekend January 23 the region and you can find out more information about their - 25, 2015. As in the past few years, the event will be at the Frost activities at www.newyorkheritage.com/rvw. In addition, the Valley YMCA and there will be a variety of excursions, from Trail Conference has begun offering guided hikes throughout easier ones for those new to winter the Catskill Mountains and their hiking or more challenging adven- schedule will be posted at www. tures for experienced members. nynjtc.org/view/events. Details will be on the 3500 Club website at www.catskill-3500-club. Getting Involved org soon or contact Maria Bedo at If you are interested in learning 917 881 9272 for more informa- more about hiking the Catskill tion. Mountains, getting outdoors, join- ing a trail crew, adopting a trail for Second Sundays Series at Spillian maintenance, or just finding out Watch the Trail Conference’s Trail more information about steward- University Calendar (www.nynjtc. ship of our recreational facilities org/view/workshops) to take part in the Catskill Mountains, please in monthly workshops on a num- contact the Trail Conference at ber of different topics including 518 628 4243 or via email at map and compass skills, outdoor [email protected]. hiking safety, gear, trail stories and more! All are held at Spillian in Fleischmanns, a Trail Conference partner in the central Catskills. Photo by Jeff Senterman

Love Trails? Jeff Senterman was formerly an Assistant Forest Ranger for the DEC Trails, trail construction and trail maintenance don’t just happen! in Greene County, graduated with a degree in Environmental Science In the Catskills much of this is work is completed by volunteers from Lyndon State College, has worked in the Environmental Plan- (with support from DEC Forest Rangers and Staff), but even ning field, is currently the Senior Program Coordinator and Director then, financial support is needed to make these projects a reality. of the Catskill Conservation Corps for the New York-New Jersey Trail If you want to help with the protection of open spaces, trails and Conference and is a member of the Board of Directors for the Catskill the natural resources of the , you can support Trail Mountain Club and the Friends of the Catskill Interpretive Center. Conference programs in the Catskill Mountains. Your donation goes right to work on the trails and lean-tos of the Catskill Moun- The New York-New Jersey Trail Conference partners with parks to tains, supports advocacy work for open space and the Catskill create, protect, and promote a network of 2,000 miles of public trails, Park and supports staff who manage programs in the Catskill including 30 lean-tos and over 200 miles of trails in the Catskill Mountains, aim to spur local economic development by making Mountain region. We offer volunteer opportunities for people who the public open space lands of the Catskill Park more accessible love the outdoors, as well as publishing detailed hiking maps for the and appealing, and engage with local residents in the stewardship Catskill Mountain Region, along with a number of other regions. of Catskill Mountains Region’s trails and open space. To support For more information on our programs in the Catskills please visit us the Catskills Trails Program visit www.nynjtc.org/product/donate- on the web at www.nynjtc.org/catskills and follow us on Facebook at catskills-trail-program. www.facebook.com/NYNJTC.CatskillRegion.

18 • www.catskillregionguide.com Two New Year’s Eve hikes up , 77 years apart. Left: Asa Randall in 1896. Right: The author in 1973

CHILLING IN THE NEW YEAR By Paul Misko

n today’s world of “selfies” and YouTube videos, almost every- no nylon, no polyester insulation, no battery powered socks, no Ione is on a quest to do something unique that they can elec- flashlights, and no GPS. Cameras weighed about 5 pounds. tronically crow about, and then sit back and wait for the addictive Just a few years ago Ray Painter, from Woodland Valley had feedback. It is no surprise to see folks try to put an unusual spin discovered an old family photo album. Inside the flaky pages on notable dates, birthdays, weddings, and even funerals. This is were many photos of various hikes taken in the surrounding area, hardly a new concept, and in this article I will share two moun- mostly showing two hiking friends, Asa Randall and Wilmot taintop adventures, both of which took place on New Year’s Eve, Morehouse. Some especially interesting images were taken of the and both on the same mountain, but separated by 77 years. Both daring duo on a winter camp-out on Wittenberg, a tall mountain excursions are from a time when a “facebook” was really a “book in Woodland Valley, made more exiting as the captions written of faces,” or photo album, and folks schemed to do the unusual, revealed it was done on New Year’s Eve in 1896! The faded photos and record it for others to see. As you will see, between the first show them posing on the snow covered summit, and then in and second expeditions, the equipment changed quite dramati- their final resting place … for the night that is … a natural stone cally, and actually, since the second trip to the present, the equip- shelter referred to as “bear cave” in many early accounts. Not an ment has made another great lurch forward. accurate title, as it is not really a cave, and there is no record that My outdoor playground centers around Woodland Valley, it ever contained a bear. Typical Catskill nomenclature. located near Phoenicia, NY. Over the years I’ve heard accounts of The climb up Wittenberg was a tough one for them, as it gets hiking adventures from some of the old-timers, and my imagina- quite rocky in the last stretch, where one has to use one’s hands tion got percolating. Some of these amazing treks took place in in several places, and climb up a rock face at one point. The only the winter, such as snowshoeing up to the summit of Slide Moun- advantage they had was they were able to ascend the first phase of tain in snow over 3- and 4-feet deep, and even sleeping overnight. the climb to Simpson’s Plateau by means of the early trail, which Keep in mind, those were the days of canvas, leather, wood and was a crude road, and provided a much easier climb than the new iron. The equipment was durable, but VERY heavy. No gore-tex, trail. This old trail was closed by the DEC in the late 1970’s. A

January 2015 • GUIDE 19 to whack against your leg to get them to work. A candle lantern, a small camp stove and a pocket transistor radio came in handy. I mention “transistor” because this was still the day when that was an advertised feature. All this would be housed in my $20, blaze orange, nylon tent, with tie down flaps and a screen vent running along each side. The high ventilation tent complemented our summer weight sleeping bags well. For food, we had some raisins, chocolate and such, with a packet of freeze dried beef stew for dinner, and freeze dried straw- berries for dessert. The packet of stew was supposed to be enough for two … two chipmunks perhaps. Oatmeal and cocoa were on the menu for breakfast. After a hearty breakfast on the morning of December 31, our dad drove us down the road to the trail head, and watched us as Asa Randall on balsam boughs, New Year’s Day, 1897 we crossed the cable bridge over Woodland Creek, certain that he new trail was put in starting from the Woodland Valley Camp- would never see us again. This bridge, now gone, was referred to ground. Today, one still has to do the same difficult upper section as the “swinging bridge,” because it was a cable bridge. Precocious which takes one up the last mile to the summit. kids would cross first, then jump up and down on the far side, The old photos reveal the heavy burden Asa and Wilmot had causing anyone crossing in the middle to get bounced around to bear. Canvas packs, wool blankets, waterproofs (rubberized good, sometimes even get propelled off the boards while hanging canvas sheets), heavy pots and pans, and lucky for us … a camera. on the cable railings for dear life. A great way to start a hike, and One can see a candle in a bucket, which provided a wind-proof lucky for us we didn’t have to endure such a wobbly start. lighting system. Some of the items seem to be army surplus, The weather was cold and breezy, but the sun was out, and perhaps from the Spanish American War. Food was likely to be that encouraged us. We did have snowshoes on our packs, but the beans, bacon, bread, coffee, chocolate, and maybe eggs if carefully anticipated need never arose, as the trail was packed down by pre- packed. No worries about calories I’m sure. vious travelers. They were the old style wooden snow shoes, which They arrived at the summit, with not much daylight to spare, look great on a cabin wall, but are bulky and heavy. Up we went, and set up camp in the “cave,” a stony shelter that can sleep six but since this was still the days of the old road trail, this first part people and two porcupines. I’ve stayed there myself. The view is wasn’t so bad. We often had to stay away from the icy center, and great, but there is no cable, and room service is dreadfully slow. If walk along the side of the trail where undisturbed snow gave the you’re lucky, you’ll find a snoozing bear in the corner to snuggle up against. In those days, B & B stood for Balsam Boughs, as this was the common camp mattress of the day, and the photo shows Asa lying on them, wrapped in his “waterproof.” Balsam bough bedding is not an allowable practice now. Now let’s move the narrative to December, 1973, which is 77 years after the previous account. My oldest brother J.P. and I had been doing some winter hikes, and got the idea in our noggins to climb the Wittenberg and have a New Year’s Eve overnight on top. At this point, we were unaware of the Asa’s and Wilmot’s adventure and thought we were breaking new ground. We gathered together the gear we did have, most of which would later prove to be less than ideal for such a daring expedi- tion. We would be wearing the common hiking clothes of the day, blue jeans, which were also the worst thing to wear, as cotton loses all warmth when wet, and takes forever to dry out. We did have some wool and polyester articles too, but nothing like what is available today, such as Gore-Tex and polyester fleece. We did have some bright colors, maybe so the search party could more easily find our frozen carcasses later that winter. No ice creepers for my smooth soled shoes, though I did put a spike in my walk- ing stick. We had a couple of cheap flashlights, the kind you had J.P. Misko on a steep section, 1973

20 • www.catskillregionguide.com most traction. We eventually strode past the Terrace Mt. lean-to, and then over the flat rock top of Terrace, or Simpson’s Plateau, where tannery owner Jimmy Simpson had wanted to build a hotel back in the 1870’s. From this point, we could gaze up and see our goal: the frosted peak of Wittenberg rising high above the scrubby trees, so far away, yet still possible. After a brief snack and drink to fuel us, we began the difficult haul to the summit. Soon we left the well defined road portion of trail, and lurched into second half of the hike. It was increasingly rough and required more care taken in foot placement. The bootprints of earlier hikers encour- aged us and we figured “If they can do it, so can we.” In the summer, Wittenberg gives you a strenuous hike. In the winter, the snow and ice make for a treacherous trail, and in cer- tain places it would be very easy to slip your way to a drop of ten or twenty feet with a rocky embrace at the bottom. Up and over many steep and ledgey places we had to creep, like two mountain Wilmot Morehouse in Wittenberg cave 1897. Note the candle in the bucket. goats, carefully planning each footfall for optimum traction. Soon near the summit, we picked up our pace as the trail smoothed the clouds rolled in, and so did the wind, which brushing its over and leveled out, and at about 3:00 pm, we reached the sum- invisible hands through the mountain’s moppy top of balsam. A mit. The snow had begun to fall, and we snapped a few pictures soothing sound in warm weather, but not so much in December to record our victory. The low quality of the camera accounts for when just hearing it amplifies the feeling of cold. the low grade images, but I’m glad to have even those. With the effort needed for this steep climbing, it was not We knew not to linger long, as daylight was surrendering to easy to keep your clothes from getting damp with perspiration, what would soon be total darkness. After backtracking down the and the biting breeze didn’t allow us to take off more layers, a trail 100 yards or so, we searched for the best available flat spot trick much easier to pull off with today’s fabrics. Finally, at last, to set up camp. Even though the footprints hinted at it, we were surprised to see a few tents already dispersed among the trees with the owners already tucked in for the night. Each one glowing from within made for a surreal scene. We knew we hadn’t much time to set up camp, so with our Boy Scout trained teamwork, we got to work setting up the tent. My discount domicile seemed ridiculously inadequate at the moment. Under the layer of snow was a layer of ice, so we had to tie the tent to surrounding trees and rocks, as the stakes wouldn’t make a dent. One of the main guy lines was tied around a loose rock, which we then froze into place by means of a splash of water. With the tent up, we dove in, pulled our gear in after us, and rolled out our sleeping bags and climbed in. After we exchanged wet clothes for dry, we took on the challenge of making dinner. I assembled my stove, and was able to set it up just outside the tent flap, and heat the kettle of water needed to re-hydrate our dinner and give us a hot drink. The boiling water was poured into the pack of dry stew, but within a couple of minutes, it had gone from hot to warm. The strawberries we ate dry, washed down with warm cocoa. It was a meal, though we could have eaten three times the amount of food we brought. It was total darkness now. My brother lit his small candle lantern and we began enduring the long night of cold. The wind upped it’s velocity and violently shook the tent. At times the gusts seemed like they would tear it apart at any moment. Of course the vents along each side ef- ficiently evacuated most of the warmth inside, and allowed in the cold’s icy fingers to tickle our noses. We had about 13 hours to go Up the ledge we go! 1973 until sunrise. With better sleeping bags and foam mats, this might

January 2015 • GUIDE 21 have been a good time to catch up with much needed sleep, but it mix, and seemed like an eternity to finally reach morning, and was not to be. The summer weight sleeping bags kept us far from sunrise. cozy, and we had to constantly turn over to give the side lying on The first chore of the day was heating up water for oatmeal the ice a chance to warm up. This went on throughout the long and cocoa. After slurping that down, we fell to striking camp as night. fast as possible, getting our packs on, and heading back down Dehydration is a big concern in the winter months, because the trail of rocks and ice. We clambered down in good time, it easy to not feel the need to drink when you are cool. The quest spurred on by thoughts of a hot meal, and a warm cabin, but to keep hydrated in a situation like this is tempered by the knowl- still took care at the difficult places to avoid injury. Finally as we edge that what goes in, must come out. There is nothing worse approached Terrace Mt., the trail turns more road-like, and we than being tucked into your tent, and having to get dressed and could keep up a good pace. Near the bottom, we saw our father, booted up, to venture into the frigid darkness to water a tree. It who had worried about us all night, and decided to meet us on was about 15 degrees that night, and doing anything outside was the trail with our dog for an early greeting. We made it over the a challenge. swinging bridge, into the car, and finally into the wonderful After lying there for a while, I remembered my little radio. comfort of our cabin. My brother and I spent the next couple of I clicked it on, and was finally able to tune in WNEW FM, and years seriously upgrading our equipment, and he even took and we listened to Alison Steele, the “Night Bird” playing Yes albums outdoor winter survival course for good measure. So then years as midnight and the New Year approached. In this remote loca- later, when I found out about Asa and Wilmot’s New Year’s Eve tion, the radio connected us to the rest of the world, and helped adventure, I could definitely relate. Life is a hard master. First us forget the dull pain caused by the cold. The battery held out comes the test, and then the lesson. long enough to hear the New Year declared, and we fell into our restless sleep, accompanied by noise of the flapping tent, and the Paul Misko is a historian in the Woodland Valley area, and is the constant turnovers and adjustments in the search for meaningful founder of the Catskill 4000 Club, a group which leads history hikes rest. Sleep like this always brings those short, weird dreams to the in the region. He can be contacted at [email protected]

View from Wittenberg Summit, 1973

22 • www.catskillregionguide.com JANUARY AT THE CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION

At the Orpheum through January 11 In both 2D and 3D through 1/11

WHERE THE PERFORMING ARTS, FINE ARTS, CRAFTS, MOVIES, BOOKS, AND GOOD FRIENDS MEET MOUNTAIN CINEMA At the Doctorow Center for the Arts • 7971 Main Street, Hunter January Schedule for Screen Two, the only place on the Mountain Top to see the best Foreign and Independent Films

ALIVE INSIDE (UNRATED, 78 MINUTES) NATIONAL GALLERY (UNRATED, 181 MINUTES) DIRECTED BY MICHAEL ROSSATO-BENNETT DIRECTED BY FREDERICK WISEMAN This stirring documentary follows social worker Dan Cohen, London’s National Gallery is itself portrayed as a brilliant founder of the nonprofit organization Music & Memory, as work of art in Frederick Wiseman’s 39th documentary. He he fights against a broken healthcare system to demon- listens raptly as docents decode the great canvases in the strate music’s ability to combat memory loss and restore museum’s collection; he visits with the museum’s restorers a deep sense of self to those suffering from it. Rossato- as they use tiny instruments to repair an infinitesimal chip; Bennett visits family members who have witnessed the mi- he attends administrative meetings in which senior execu- raculous effects of personalized music on their loved ones, tives do battle with younger ones who want the museum and offers illuminating interviews with experts including to become less stodgy and more welcoming to a larger renowned neurologist and best-selling author Oliver Sacks cross-section of the public. But most of all, we experience (Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brain) and musician the joy of spending time with great works of art and listen Bobby McFerrin (“Don’t Worry, Be Happy”). 1/2/15-1/4/15. to the connoisseurs who discourse upon the various un- Friday 7:15; Saturday 4:15 & 7:15; Sunday 2:15, 4:45 & 7:15 derpinnings of these masterpieces.1/9/15-1/11/15. Friday 7:15; Saturday 4:15 & 7:15; Sunday 2:15 & 7:15 “Michael Rossato-Bennett captures some amazingly trans- formative results in the treatment of dementia through “Remarkably engaging and, with close looks at so many music.” important pieces of art, bursting with beauty.” —Rob Nelson, Variety —Stephanie Merry, Washington Post

January 2015 • GUIDE 23 A GIRL WALKS HOME VIVA LA LIBERTA ALONE AT NIGHT (UNRATED, 94 MINUTES) (UNRATED, 99 MINUTES) DIRECTED BY ROBERTO ANDÒ DIRECTED BY ANA LILY AMIRPOUR As the national election approaches, En- Strange things are afoot in Bad City. The rico Oliveri has plummeted in the polls Iranian ghost town, home to prosti- and his supporters and adversaries alike tutes, junkies, pimps, and other sordid begin to acknowledge his impending souls, is a place that reeks of death and downfall. Unwilling to face failure, Oli- hopelessness, where a lonely vampire is veri vanishes into the night. In a desperate move, his right stalking the town’s most unsavory inhabitants. But when hand man seeks out Oliveri’s twin brother, Giovanni Ernani, boy meets girl, an unusual love story begins to blossom. a prolific author and philosopher who is newly released The first Iranian Vampire Western, Ana Lily Amirpour’s from an insane asylum. Slowly and steadily, Giovanni in- debut feature basks in the sheer pleasure of pulp. A joyful sinuates himself into his brother’s public persona, imper- mash-up of genre, archetype and iconography, its prolific sonating Oliveri’s every tick and mannerism exquisitely. influences span spaghetti westerns, graphic novels, hor- Giovanni quickly surpasses his brother’s political prowess ror films, and the Iranian New Wave. Its airy, anamorphic, with an eerie talent for rallying the masses through fearless black-and-white aesthetic and artfully drawnout scenes and heroic speeches. As the film shifts between the failure combine the simmering tension of Sergio Leone with of the sincere intellectual and the heroics of a madman, he the weird surrealism of David Lynch. In Farsi with English probes the driving forces behind our contemporary global subtitles.1/16/15-1/18/15. Friday 7:15; Saturday 4:15 & 7:15; political reality leaving behind a rich web of questions. In Sunday 2:15, 4:45 & 7:15 Italian with English subtitles. 1/30/15-2/1/15. Friday 7:15; Saturday 4:15 & 7:15; Sunday 2:15, 4:45 & 7:15 “[A] tightly scripted, pictorially lavish, downbeat romantic fantasy…. The fablelike drama offers a powerful symbolic “Blends political satire with gentle comedy, high concept display of feminine power and outlaw charm.” with genuine warmth…. Well worth seeing for the per- —Richard Brody, The New Yorker formance, or more accurately, the performances of the estimable Toni Servillo, who plays twin brothers.” HUMAN CAPITAL —Film Journal International (UNRATED, 110 MINUTES) DIRECTED BY PAOLO VIRZÌ POINT AND SHOOT Human Capital begins at the end, as a (UNRATED, 83 MINUTES) cyclist is run off the road by a careening DIRECTED BY MARSHALL CURRY SUV the night before Christmas Eve. In 2006, Matt Van Dyke, a timid 26-year- As details emerge of the events lead- old, left home in Baltimore and set off ing up to the accident, the lives of the on a self-described “crash course in well-to-do Bernaschi family, privileged manhood.” He bought a motorcycle and detached, will intertwine with the Ossolas, strug- and a video camera and began a gling to keep their comfortable middle-class life, in ways three-year, 35,000-mile motorcycle trip neither could have expected. Dino Ossola, in dire financial through Northern Africa and the Middle East. While travel- straits, anticipates the birth of twins with his second wife. ing, he struck up an unlikely friendship with a Libyan , Meanwhile, Dino’s teenage daughter’s relationship with and when revolution broke out in Libya, Matt joined his hedge-fund manager Giovanni Bernaschi’s playboy son friend in the fight against dictator Muammar Gaddafi. With complicates an already tricky social dance of status, money a gun in one hand and a camera in the other, Matt fought and ambition. Observing transformative events from each in—and filmed—the war until he was captured by Gaddafi’s character’s perspective, the film is a nuanced account of forces and held in solitary confinement for six months. Two- desire, greed and the value of human life in an age of ram- time Academy Award nominated documentary filmmaker pant capitalism and financial manipulation. In Italian with Marshall Curry tells this harrowing and sometimes humor- English subtitles.1/23/15-1/25/15. Friday 7:15; Saturday 4:15 ous story of a young man’s struggle for political revolution & 7:15; Sunday 2:15, 4:45 & 7:15 and personal transformation. 2/6/15-2/8/15. Friday 7:15; Saturday 4:15 & 7:15; Sunday 2:15, 4:45 & 7:15 “Not just a chic thriller, but an engrossing study of Italian society and a downward-spiralling economy.” “A gripping non-fiction thriller. Riveting … suspenseful … —Deborah Young, Hollywood Reporter an extraordinary and quietly disturbing film.” —David Rooney, Hollywood Reporter

24 • www.catskillregionguide.com MOUNTAIN CINEMA

DOCTOROW CENTER ORPHEUM FILM & PERFORMING FOR THE ARTS ARTS CENTER 7971 Main Street 6050 Main Street Village of Hunter Village of Tannersville

We show the best Hollywood films available each week. Below are some confirmed films that we will show during the month of January, plus a list of other films we may show. For the most up-to-date schedule, call 518 263 4702 or visit www.catskillmtn.org. While there, sign up for our e-mail updates so you can get the newest schedule delivered to your e-mail box each week! Ticket Prices (Screens 2 & 3, and the Orpheum): $9 / $7 seniors & children under 11 3D Ticket Prices (Screen 1): $11/ $9 seniors & children under 11 At the Doctorow Center for the Arts, OTHER FILMS WE MAY SHOW 7950 Main Street, Village of Hunter AMERICAN SNIPER (RATED R, 132 MINUTES) THE HOBBIT: THE BATTLE OF THE FIVE ARMIES (RATED PG-13, 144 MINUTES) BIG EYES (RATED PG-13, 105 MINUTES) DIRECTED BY PETER JACKSON Bilbo and company are forced to engage in a war against BIG HERO 6 (RATED PG, 102 MINUTES) an array of combatants and keep the terrifying Smaug from acquiring a kingdom of treasure and obliterating all BLACKHAT (RATED R) of Middle-Earth. 1/2-1/11. Friday 7:00; Saturday 4:00 & 7:00; Sunday 2:00, 4:30 & 7:00. THE IMITATION GAME (RATED PG-13, 114 MINUTES) NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB INTO THE WOODS (RATED PG, 124 MINUTES) (RATED PG, 97 MINUTES) DIRECTED BY SHAWN LEVY MORTDECAI (NOT YET RATED) Larry spans the globe, uniting favorite and new characters while embarking on an epic quest to save the magic before PENGUINS OF MADAGASCAR it is gone forever. 1/2-1/11. Friday 7:30; Saturday 4:30 & 7:30; (RATED PG, 92 MINUTES) Sunday 2:30, 5:00 & 7:30.

At the Orpheum Film & Performing Arts Center, SELMA (RATED PG-13, 127 MINUTES) 6050 Main Street, Village of Tannersville ST. VINCENT (RATED PG-13, 102 MINUTES) THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING (RATED PG-13, 123 MINUTES) TAKEN 3 (RATED PG-13) DIRECTED BY JAMES MARSH UNBROKEN (RATED PG-13, 137 MINUTES) A look at the relationship between the famous physicist Stephen Hawking and his wife, Jane. 1/2-1/11. Friday 7:30; Saturday 4:00 & 7:30; Sunday 7:30 WILD (RATED R, 115 MINUTES)

January 2015 • GUIDE 25 HOMEFESTIVAL DANCE OF THEORPHEUM ZviDance in residency 2014 Taylor 2 in residency 2013

Flamenco Vivo in residency 2013 Heidi Latsky Dance in residency 2013 & 2014

EACH YEAR, THE CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION: • presents and hosts more than 30 performances and lectures at our two performance spaces. • shows more than 100 films on our four screens. • runs free or subsidized arts programs for hundreds of local students. • runs a dozen studio arts programs, with students from around the U.S. • hosts six arts residencies bringing over 200 artists to our community for extended stays. • offers works of over 40 regional artists in its gallery, along with the largest selection of regional books in the area. • is the home of the Piano Performance Museum, a rare collection of playable pianos going back to the time of Mozart and Beethoven. • publishes the monthly Guide magazine, with a circulation of 7,000 each month, distributed throughout the Catskill Region and at New York State Thruway rest stops. www.catskillmtn.org • [email protected] • 518 263 2063 26 • www.catskillregionguide.com Latest local and regional history titles!

Beautiful hardcover children’s books, deeply discounted!

LOCATED IN HUNTER VILLAGE SQUARE 7950 MAIN ST/RTE. 23A • VILLAGE OF HUNTER 518 263 2050 • WWW.CATSKILLMTN.ORG HOURS: FRIDAY & SATURDAY 10AM-5PM; SUNDAY 10AM-3:30PM

CATSKILL MOUNTAIN FOUNDATION PIANO PERFORMANCE MUSEUM Featuring the Steven E. Greenstein Collection

Rediscover this extraordinary collection and its new positioning as a major venue for performance, music education and historical insights.

Route 23A, Main Street, Village of Hunter 518 821 3440 • www.catskillmtn.org Hours: Friday and Saturday, noon-4 pm & by appointment The CMF Piano Museum is funded in part by the Jarvis and Constance Doctorow Family Foundation

January 2015 • GUIDE 27 JANUARY 2015 MOVIES CLASSES WILL & EVENTS AT A GLANCE BE OPEN FOR REGISTRATION BY JANUARY 10! CINEMA 2 - FOREIGN & ORPHEUM - FILMS INDEPENDENT FILMS AT AT THE ORPHEUM THE DOCTOROW PERFORMANCES WEEKLY CLASSES start June 24 CINEMAS 1 & 3 - GALLERY EVENTS Basics & Beyond: June 24-August 26 HOLLYWOOD FILMS AT Susan Beecher, nationally recognized potter & teacher SPECIAL EVENT THE DOCTOROW Clay for Seniors: June 24-August 26 Susan Beecher

Schedule subject to change: please call 518 263 4702 or visit WORKSHOPS start June 25 Making & Firing: Form & Surface for the Salt Kiln: our website for the most up-to-date schedule. June 25-June 30 Suze Lindsay, potter at Pottery While there, sign up for e-mail updates so you can get the Sensational Salt Firing: July 3-5 newest schedule delivered to your e-mail box each week! Susan Beecher Flashing & Fuming: Special Effects in Raku & Salt Firing: July 9-14 (F) JAN 2 (ST) JAN 3 (SU) JAN 4 Randy Brodnax & Don Ellis, master Raku potters THE HOBBIT THE HOBBIT THE HOBBIT 7:00 PM 4:00 & 7:00 PM 2:00, 4:30 & 7:00 PM Stunning Porcelain: Form & Surface: July 16-20 ALIVE INSIDE ALIVE INSIDE ALIVE INSIDE Matthew Metz, studio potter 7:15 PM 4:15 & 7:15 PM 2:15, 4:45 & 7:15 PM Plein Air Landscapes in Oil or Acrylic: July 18-19 NIGHT AT THE NIGHT AT THE NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM MUSEUM MUSEUM Jeffrey Kleckner, potter & teacher 7:30 PM 4:30 & 7:30 PM 2:30, 5:00 & 7:30 PM A THEORY OF A THEORY OF A THEORY OF Form & Pattern: July 23-28 EVERYTHING EVERYTHING EVERYTHING Jeffrey Kleckner, potter & teacher 7:30 PM 4:00 & 7:30 PM 7:30 PM Exciting Linoleum Reduction Prints: July 25-26 (F) JAN 9 (ST) JAN 10 (SU) JAN 11 Francia Tobacman-Smith, THE HOBBIT THE HOBBIT THE HOBBIT 7:00 PM 4:00 & 7:00 PM 2:00, 4:30 & 7:00 PM painter, printmaker and teacher NATIONAL GALLERY NATIONAL GALLERY NATIONAL GALLERY 7:15 PM 4:15 & 7:15 PM 2:15 & 7:15 PM Magnificent Mosaics: July 26-28 NIGHT AT THE NIGHT AT THE NIGHT AT THE Cynthia Fisher, award-winning mosaic artist MUSEUM MUSEUM MUSEUM 7:30 PM 4:30 & 7:30 PM 2:30, 5:00 & 7:30 PM Chinese Brush Painting: August 1-2 A THEORY OF A THEORY OF A THEORY OF Linda Schultz, master painter EVERYTHING EVERYTHING EVERYTHING 7:30 PM 4:00 & 7:30 PM 7:30 PM Elegantly Altered: August 6-11 (F) JAN 16 (ST) JAN 17 (SU) JAN 18 Martha Grover, potter A GIRL WALKS HOME A GIRL WALKS HOME A GIRL WALKS HOME ALONE AT NIGHT ALONE AT NIGHT ALONE AT NIGHT An Artist’s Approach: From Concept to Completion: 7:15 PM 4:15 & 7:15 PM 2:15, 4:45 & 7:15 PM August 13-17 (F) JAN 23 (ST) JAN 24 (SU) JAN 25 Jeff Shapiro, internationally-known instructor HUMAN CAPITAL HUMAN CAPITAL HUMAN CAPITAL Increasing the Scale & Drama of Your Work: 7:15 PM 4:15 & 7:15 PM 2:15, 4:45 & 7:15 PM August 20-25 Richard Aerni, full-time studio potter (F) JAN 30 (ST) JAN 31 (SU) FEB 1 VIVA LA LIBERTA VIVA LA LIBERTA VIVA LA LIBERTA The Allure of the Altered Pot: August 27-31 7:15 PM 4:15 & 7:15 PM 2:15, 4:45 & 7:15 PM Susan Beecher

(F) FEB 6 (ST) FEB 7 (SU) FEB 8 Visit www.sugarmaples.org or call 518 263 2001 POINT AND SHOOT POINT AND SHOOT POINT AND SHOOT for more details, to request a brochure, 7:15 PM 4:15 & 7:15 PM 2:15, 4:45 & 7:15 PM to register or to make reservations for housing.

28 • www.catskillregionguide.com Tickets onWe sale Have soon! Some Exciting Things Planned at the Catskill Mountain Foundation for 2015! Bringing the Community Together through the Arts

Left to right: Berkshire Bach Ensemble; David Krakauer; Golden Dragon Acrobats; Julie Fowlis, photo by Michelle Fowlis CLASSICAL Schoen Movement Company Showcase: Berkshire Bach Ensemble: “Dancing ‘round the Hearth” Vivaldi and His Contemporaries 4/24/2015 @ the Orpheum Featuring World-Renowned Harpsichordist Kenneth Cooper Keigwin + Company: 6/13/2015 @ the Doctorow Center for the Arts Dance that Hits Your Pleasure Receptors “So great was the rhythmic swing, pictorial effect and overall vitality 6/6/2015 @ the Orpheum that listeners near the stage seemed in danger at times of having “It’s rare that a modern-dance concert hits all the right notes: the music dance right into their laps.” a good length (leaving you wanting more but still feeling that —Berkshire Eagle you’ve got your money’s worth); well-crafted pieces presented in a sensible order; alert, engaging performers with great technical in the Mountains: skill; dances that show humor and drama in equal measure; and The Human Face of Klezmer accessibility”. David Krakauer, Clarinet —Andrew Boynton, The New Yorker 7/25/2015 @ the Doctorow Center for the Arts “David Krakauer is such an overwhelmingly expressive clarinet- National Dance Institute Mountain Top ist who moves so seamlessly between different genres that for a Summer Residency Performance minute you’d almost think that there’s no appreciable difference “The Roots of American Dance” between jazz, klezmer and formal classical music.” 7/18/2015 @ the Orpheum —The Wall Street Journal, September 26, 2013 The grand finale of NDI’s two-week summer mountaintop resi- dency program for local schoolchildren. Manhattan in the Mountains: Around the World in 80 Minutes 8/1/2015 @ the Doctorow Center for the Arts FAMILY Aladdin and His Lamp: National Marionette Theater Acis and Galatea: A Baroque Opera by Handel 10/24/2015 (Date to be confirmed) The Inspiration for “The Little Mermaid” @ the Doctorow Center for the Arts Four Nations Ensemble 9/6/2015 @ the Doctorow Center for the Arts WORLD CULTURE “From its first notes, the quieter sounds of the strings and fort- OMNY Taiko Drummers: epiano were perfectly balanced, and dynamic changes were not Celebrate the 4th of July with a Bang! less dramatic in the hands of these players. It was wonderful to 7/4/2015 @ the Orpheum hear such an ensemble.” “Art, music, connection, these things are as old as the hills.” —Howard Vogel, The Woodstock Times, NY —Amanda Palmer

Windham Festival Chamber Orchestra: Mostly Mozart Golden Dragon Acrobats Featuring Mozartean Pianist, Anna Polonsky Sharing Ancient Practices with New Audiences Robert Manno, Conductor 10/3/2015 @ the Orpheum 11/28/2015 @ the Doctorow Center for the Arts Observe, marvel and reflect on the 29 Chinese acrobats playing “It was an evening of exciting musical joy and the standing ovation with balance, precision, coordination, flexibility and agility. The ac- at the end gave expression to it.” robats highlight inconceivable human body abilities that one might —John Paul Keeler, Columbia-Greene Media, reviewing the 2013 have never imagined possible. concert by the Windham Festival Chamber Orchestra at the CMF Scottish Singer Julie Fowlis DANCE A Treasure Trove of Gaelic Song “American Dream” Featuring Talented 10/10/2015 @ the Doctorow Center for the Arts Student Dancers of American Dance Stars “A sublime and impassioned singer...” Victoria Rinaldi and Valentina Kozlova —Mark Radcliffe, BBC Radio 2 / BBC 6Music 4/11/2015 @ the Orpheum www.catskillmtn.org • 518 263 2000